2008 Lexus IS vs. 1979 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 7 more horse power than 2008 Lexus IS. (153 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2008 Lexus IS.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (195 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 1979 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lexus | Lotus |
| Model | IS | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2440 mm |
